It is important to have the proper layout for the course. To ensure you have the proper technology tools that you will be using and to make sure it is user friendly. It will need to be user friendly in order for the students to access any and every information to facilitate with the course.
The most important things I saw were (1) that moving F2F content to online is not simply a transfer but a transformation of content making it suitable for online teaching, and (2) the four "O"s of course design.
I really like the idea of adding a welcome letter or a welcome video at the beginning of the course on the main page. This is something that I typically do in class as an introductory discussion for everyone on the first day of the new course. I think this is a good way to keep a certain type of continuity between what people would be used to, and what they will find online.
Formatting my course is important to allow the student to better access and refer back. Using modules with 1 to 2 key concepts allows for this.
seth Soronnadi
It does matter how content are layed out, because consistentcy in course layout will make it easier for students to find materials that they need. Also, it helps students to be able to find the information quickly and easily.
It is good to be consistent and use a different way for online teaching.
Putting content into the the online course is more than just transferring. It's about transforming. We don't have to reinvent the wheel. Just make sure I have a consistent, user friendly, engaging course layout.
- I llearned that a quality online course should be well-organized and easy to navigate. The course syllabus should identify and clearly outline what the online environment will play in the total course. You should begin with student engagement right away to get the interest of the students. I also took away that you should use online tools wisely not just because its accessible, too many tools can be overwhelming to the student.
Reply to Craig Stockwell's post: I think you don't want things too identical in presentation between courses. That will lock you in to that style too much (if you want to change it, you have to change it everywhere). Instead, make your personal style consistent, then make sure different instructors style's feel compatible, but not direst copies.
Being consistent with course layout will make it easier for students to find/access materials needed. Students will find information quickly and easily. It will make editing and updating easier for the instructor.
Online classes should be well organized so that the student learner can navigate with ease. Taking online classes also promotes self-discipline and responsiblity.
To personalize and make online learning more adaptable adn receptive i learned to write a welcome letter, personalized introduction and let my personality been known and seen through my interations.
From this module, I learned when teaching distance learning classes it helps students to have class work listed on seperated modules. I learned that I need to find new ways to encourage students to engage in learning. Some students do not want to use technology. Therefore, to get students to change with the times, I may need to give them computer assignsments using short activities. Eventually, they may get intrested in using the computer.
I liked the different ways to engage students at the very beginning of the course, and using multiple strategies to keep them engaged. the was an interesting section!
What I took in most was the importance of consistency [in presentation media] -- find an aesthetic which works, apply it consistently to all modules of your course ... and maybe (if other members are on-board) all courses in the sequence/program/department. By doing so, learners can feel comfortable because they only have to 'learn' one general template.
F2F classes cannot simply be switched over to online classes. Important changes need to take place in order to maintain clarity of materials, continuity, and engagement with students. Courses must also be consistently evaluated and updated for what is working and what is not working. Creating a sense of caring—a personal touch to teaching —is important and can begin with a warm welcome letter and end with a class wrap up. Lecturing does lend well to an online teaching/learning environment. It is also best to stick to one or two main concepts (creating modules can help with this.)
I consider the use of modules to be pretty effective in designing online courses
Once again, so much to think about! One cannot simply transfer face to face learning to an online format. The instructor needs to find the right technological tools to not only communicate content but one that matches with their teaching stlye and makes it easy for students to access.
Consistency, Communication, and Collaboration were the main takeaways. Finding ways to collaborate with students using multiple online tools can help assist with all three.
I like the method of thinking how I would communicate/evaluate the information in my face-to-face class, and then choosing online options that match my teaching style.
